03.04
This is some incredibly shady news.
What is ski mountaineering?
Ski mountaineering is a combination of ski touring and mountaineering. The goal of a ski mountaineer is to climb up a mountain (preferably to the summit) and ski down a nice beautiful elegant line. It’s an incredibly hard sport and can be dangerous to those who aren’t trained in it, but it supposed to be the thrill of a lifetime.
Race Canceled!
This year there was supposed to be a national ski mountaineering championship taking place on April 19. It coincides with the Telus Ski and Snowboard Festival, though it is part part of the event. The race is part of the Whistler’s annual Backcountry Freeride Jam.
Why this happened.
Lack of sponsorship. There just isn’t enough funds to allow this event to take place. Recreation Outfitters Inc., as well as The North Face have dropped sponsorship.
Why this is especially bad.
This comes at a very bad time because those that are involved with ski mountaineering are trying to bid with the International Olympic Committee to have ski mountaineering become an official Olympic sport. If this race doesn’t go on, the bid gets tossed out.
What We Can Do.
Find corporate sponsorship for the event. If you are aware of any companies that would be interested in sponsoring this event, get in touch with Whistler Blackcomb 1.866.218.9690 and let’s get this happening.